A surrogate provides a family with a beautiful, priceless gift. It’s only fair to compensate such generosity. For this reason and many others, surrogate mothers receive payment for their remarkable efforts. When looking to help create a family for others, it’s not uncommon or unreasonable to ask, “How much do surrogates get paid?”
Below is a brief look into the average surrogate compensation as well as the answers to “How much do you get paid to be a surrogate?” and other questions related to financial support.
WHAT SOMEONE CAN GAIN BY BECOMING A SURROGATE
Making the decision to become a surrogate takes careful consideration. There are legal matters, emotional uncertainties and, ultimately, health concerns. Although these are all valid points to weigh, there are also many things that special person stands to gain from the experience.
Primarily, there’s the altruism involved in carrying a baby for someone else. Pregnancy isn’t an easy feat. It takes energy and time. When a woman is willing to make these sacrifices to help make another family whole, something beautiful is accomplished in her selfless gift.
She shouldn’t be asked to give financially as well. As such, her surrogacy-related expenses are generally covered by the intended parents. People often ask, “Do surrogates get paid monthly?” and yes, certain arrangements include a monthly payment meant to cover pregnancy-related costs.
Surrogacy is a legal agreement. It may involve stipulations by each party for specific reimbursements or compensation for items such as:
- Health insurance (If a new policy is taken out, it is paid by the intended parents)
- Medical procedures
- Life insurance
- Legal expenses
- Maternity clothing
- Health care supplies
- Travel expenses
- Childcare
- Lost wages
- Spousal support
A larger payment is also a benefit of becoming a surrogate. There are several factors that can impact compensation and each case is different. Because of this, there can be a wide range in the amount. For instance, California has a higher demand and, therefore, pay may be higher.
On average, compensation in the U.S. falls between $50,000 to $80,000 depending on pregnancy history and other unique arrangements. What’s more, legal requirements and associated costs can vary state by state. Such variations are often confusing to potential surrogates as they complicate the answer to “How much are surrogates paid?”
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS SURROUNDING SURROGATE PAY
ARE A SURROGATE’S LOST WAGES COVERED?
Yes, if your surrogacy journey causes you to miss work, you’re generally compensated for lost wages. This includes any work missed due to appointments, the birth, and recovery time. That way, your financial situation isn’t negatively impacted by your generous decision to become a surrogate.
DOES A REPEAT SURROGATE GET PAID MORE FOR HER SECOND SURROGACY JOURNEY?
Yes, repeat surrogates are often offered a higher compensation package. This increased pay acknowledges the experience and dedication of surrogates who choose to embark on multiple surrogacy journeys.
IS A SURROGATE LIABLE FOR ANY HOSPITAL BILLS?
Not at all. All hospital and medical expenses related to the surrogacy are typically covered by the intended parents or through insurance. As a surrogate, you shouldn’t have to worry about any financial implications of medical care during your pregnancy.
DO SURROGATES GET PAID IF THEY DO NOT GET PREGNANT?
Yes, surrogates receive compensation for various steps along the journey, not just for achieving pregnancy. This includes compensation for the medical screening, the embryo transfer procedure, and any other preparations needed to attempt pregnancy.
DO SURROGATES GET PAID MORE FOR A SIBLING JOURNEY?
Yes, surrogates who help the same family again by carrying a sibling for their child usually receive additional compensation. This is to recognize the surrogate’s continued relationship and trust with the family.
DO SURROGATES GET PAID TO PUMP BREAST MILK FOR INTENDED PARENTS?
If a surrogate agrees to pump breast milk after the birth, there is typically compensation involved. This payment covers the time and supplies needed to pump and often includes arrangements for the safe delivery of the milk to the intended parents.
WHAT IS A SURROGACY ESCROW?
A surrogacy escrow account is a secure way to handle the financial aspects of a surrogacy agreement. Managed by a third party, this account makes sure funds are available when needed and are disbursed according to the terms agreed upon by both parties, protecting everyone involved.
SURROGACY PAY WITH INTERNATIONAL SURROGACY CENTER
Here at International Surrogacy Center, our mission is to provide families with the missing piece of their puzzle and to ensure surrogates receive the compensation and support they deserve. If you’re a mother and understand the joy a child can bring to a family, please consider allowing us to take the journey of surrogacy with you.
Wondering how much do surrogate mothers make at ISC? Check out our compensation page for a breakdown on the reimbursement our surrogates receive.
For more information on the process, we also have a handy resource to help you understand what it means to become a surrogate.
If you’re ready to take on this life-changing challenge, you can apply today! It only takes a few minutes, and an ISC team member will reach out to you in a timely manner with more information.
Lastly, as 50% of our staff members have been surrogates themselves, we understand there are a lot of questions that come to mind. Please feel free to get in touch if our process interests you or you have any questions!